Our Employees: Strengthening Neighborhoods, Warming Hearts

Taking part in the first-ever Guardian-sponsored Habitat for Humanity Build Day in New York City was by far one of the most enlightening experiences of my life. In addition to meeting many wonderful people, including colleagues who I didn't previously know, and learning how to operate tools of the trade, I also learned how important our community is and that, through teamwork and commitment, we can build a better place for all of us to live. At the end of the day, I was proud of myself and felt good knowing that for one day, I was helping to make a difference with each nail I hammered. As the old adage says, 'Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach him how to fish and feed him for a lifetime.'

JoAnn Chippi
Executive Assistant to Guardian's Chief Investment Officer

I think we should all realize that there are others less fortunate than we are, and step up to provide assistance when called upon. I have wanted to be involved in a Habitat for Humanity project for years and am now very happy to have finally done so. It is an experience I will not soon forget.

Stephen Grimsley
Illustration Specialist
Life Pricing

Guardian's decision to contribute funds to assist those in need to obtain affordable housing is truly admirable. The contributions are used to purchase dwellings that shelter families, and they, in turn, are the very building blocks of society. It is fitting that a company, which is committed to creating financial security for many, also acts to create the most basic kind of security for those who would not otherwise have the security of a home to call their own.

Karen Warg
Director
Human Resources, Bethlehem

Volunteering underscores for me how blessed I am, and reminds me not to take the small things for granted. It's heartwarming to meet the families that will be future homeowners, and work alongside them turning their dream into a reality. This is what keeps me coming back.

Kathy Krull
Broker Specialist
Appleton MRO's Group Customer Service

In 2000, I was asked to join a small group of people wanting to establish a local chapter of Rebuilding Together, a non-profit organization that preserves and revitalizes homes and communities. Our mission is to assure that low-income homeowners, specifically seniors and those with disabilities, can continue to live in safety, warmth, and independence. During that first year, much of our funding came from us. Since then, Rebuilding Together Fox Valley has grown, and We have several major sponsors, including Guardian. This financial support, along with the time and talent received from over 1,750 skilled and unskilled volunteers, has enabled us to complete repairs and renovations on 86 homes and nine community facilities. Within the coming months, we'll reach a major milestone of completing our 100^th project. The immense joy that my husband and I get from the gratitude of our recipients is more than worth our effort. It's nice to know that we were able to help our neighbors.

Melanie Haen
Team Leader in Group Client Administration in Appleton

Since 1998, I have been a member of the Board of Directors of New Destiny Housing Corporation, a not-for-profit developer and service provider in New York City that helps low-income domestic violence survivors create stable, secure, and violence-free lives for themselves and their children. Since safe, affordable housing is a pre-requisite for helping these families achieve greater economic and personal independence, the organization's primary focus is the development of such housing. New Destiny is unique in being the only organization in New York City that focuses exclusively on the housing needs of this marginalized homeless population. What is more, much of the housing that New Destiny has created is 'services-enriched.' For example, in our permanent housing units, there are tenant support coordinators who help new residents adjust to their community, provide direct counseling and social service referrals, and arrange workshops on topics of interest to tenants, such as how to prepare a resume and financial planning tips. In 2006 alone, New Destiny completed projects that will provide housing for almost 220 families.

It's very rewarding to know that Guardian as a company, and myself as an individual, can give back to our community and help find, fund, and create housing for domestic violence survivors. This is a small way that we can match the stamina and tenacity that these survivors have shown and help them find their own new destiny.

Terry Cerezola
Real Estate and Investments Counsel in New York City